Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. An information handling system comprising: a plurality of storage devices including a first storage device to store a primary boot image of an operating system of the information handling system, a second storage device, and a third storage device; and a service processor to communicate with the first and second storage devices, and to execute a first boot process, which causes the service processor to: execute the first boot process of the primary boot image, so that during the first boot process the service processor: initiates a basic input/output system (BIOS) setup option; receives, within the BIOS setup option, a user selection of the second storage device as a recovery storage device; stores a recovery boot image on the second storage device, wherein the recovery boot image is a partial OS boot image; and restarts the first boot process after the recovery boot image is stored on the second storage device; and execute a second boot process of the primary boot image, so that during the second boot process the service processor disables a driver for the second storage device to hide the second storage device from being discoverable by the operating system, and removes the second storage device from a bootable device menu.
This invention relates to an information handling system with enhanced boot and recovery capabilities. The system includes multiple storage devices, including a primary storage device for the main operating system (OS) boot image, a second storage device for a recovery boot image, and a third storage device. A service processor manages the boot processes and storage device configurations. During the first boot process, the service processor executes the primary boot image, initiates a BIOS setup option, and allows a user to select the second storage device as a recovery storage device. The service processor then stores a partial OS boot image (recovery boot image) on the second storage device and restarts the boot process. In the second boot process, the service processor disables the driver for the second storage device, preventing the OS from detecting it, and removes the second storage device from the bootable device menu. This ensures the recovery boot image remains hidden during normal operation but is available for system recovery when needed. The third storage device may serve as additional storage or backup. The system improves reliability by maintaining a separate, hidden recovery boot image while optimizing boot performance by excluding non-essential storage devices from the boot menu.
2. The information handling system of claim 1 , the service processor to receive a recovery mode selection via an out-of-band communication, to execute a recovery boot process from in response to the recovery mode selection being received, during the recovery boot process, the service processor to: unhide the second storage device, boot to the recovery boot image on the second storage device, and configure the operating system of the information handling system based on the recovery boot image.
An information handling system includes a service processor that manages system recovery operations. The system has a primary storage device and a secondary storage device, where the secondary storage device is initially hidden from the operating system. The service processor receives a recovery mode selection through an out-of-band communication channel, such as a network or dedicated management interface, rather than through the main operating system. Upon receiving this selection, the service processor initiates a recovery boot process. During this process, the service processor unhides the secondary storage device, making it accessible to the system. The system then boots from a recovery boot image stored on the secondary storage device. This recovery boot image contains necessary files and configurations to restore or reconfigure the operating system. The service processor uses this image to configure or repair the operating system, ensuring the system returns to a functional state. This approach allows for system recovery without relying on the primary storage device, which may be corrupted or inaccessible. The out-of-band communication ensures recovery can be triggered even if the main operating system is non-responsive.
3. The information handling system of claim 2 , the service processor to store the recovery boot image as the primary boot image on the first storage device after the operating system of the information handling system is configured during the recovery boot process.
This invention relates to information handling systems, specifically a method for managing boot images during system recovery. The problem addressed is ensuring reliable system recovery by properly storing a recovery boot image as the primary boot image after the operating system is configured during a recovery boot process. The system includes a service processor that monitors and manages the boot process. During recovery, the service processor loads a recovery boot image from a secondary storage device, such as a network or removable media, to initiate the recovery process. Once the operating system is successfully configured, the service processor stores the recovery boot image as the primary boot image on the first storage device, typically a local hard drive or solid-state drive. This ensures that subsequent system boots use the recovered and configured operating system, preventing the need for repeated recovery procedures. The service processor may also verify the integrity of the recovery boot image before storing it as the primary boot image. This verification step helps prevent corruption or errors in the boot process. The system may further include additional storage devices or network-based storage for redundancy and reliability. The invention improves system recovery by automating the transition from a recovery boot image to a primary boot image, reducing manual intervention and ensuring a stable boot environment.
4. The information handling system of claim 2 , the service processor to patch the primary boot image on the first storage device based on the recovery boot image after the operating system of the information handling system is configured during the recovery boot process.
This invention relates to information handling systems, specifically a method for recovering and patching a primary boot image using a recovery boot image. The problem addressed is ensuring system recovery and maintaining boot integrity when the primary boot image is corrupted or outdated. The system includes a service processor that manages boot operations and a storage device containing both a primary boot image and a recovery boot image. During a recovery boot process, the service processor detects a failure in the primary boot image and loads the recovery boot image to initialize the system. Once the operating system is configured, the service processor patches the primary boot image using the recovery boot image, ensuring the primary boot image is updated and functional. This process restores system functionality without requiring external intervention, improving reliability and reducing downtime. The invention ensures that the primary boot image is consistently updated during recovery, maintaining system integrity and performance. The service processor's role in managing the patching process ensures seamless recovery and minimizes disruptions.
5. The information handling system of claim 1 , the service processor further to provide a basic input/output setup option during the first boot process, and to receive the recovery boot image during the basic input/output setup option prior to the recovery boot image being stored on the second storage device.
This invention relates to information handling systems, specifically those with a service processor for managing system recovery. The problem addressed is the need for a reliable and secure method to recover an information handling system when its primary operating system fails or becomes corrupted. Traditional recovery methods often require external media or complex procedures, which can be inconvenient or unreliable. The invention provides an information handling system with a service processor that facilitates system recovery. The service processor includes a first storage device for storing a recovery boot image and a second storage device for storing the operating system. During the first boot process, the service processor provides a basic input/output setup (BIOS) option that allows a user to receive and store a recovery boot image on the second storage device. This ensures that the recovery boot image is available for future use without requiring external media. The service processor can then boot the system using the recovery boot image to restore the operating system or perform diagnostics. The system may also include a network interface for downloading the recovery boot image from a remote server, enhancing flexibility and reducing the need for physical media. The invention improves system recovery by integrating the process into the BIOS setup, making it more accessible and reliable.
6. The information handling system of claim 1 , wherein each of the storage devices is a different type of storage device.
The invention relates to an information handling system designed to manage data storage across multiple storage devices of different types. The system addresses the challenge of efficiently utilizing diverse storage technologies, such as solid-state drives (SSDs), hard disk drives (HDDs), and optical storage, to optimize performance, cost, and reliability. Each storage device in the system is of a distinct type, allowing the system to leverage the unique advantages of each technology. For example, SSDs may be used for high-speed data access, while HDDs provide cost-effective, high-capacity storage. The system dynamically allocates data across these devices based on factors like access frequency, data importance, and storage characteristics. This heterogeneous storage approach enhances overall system efficiency by balancing speed, capacity, and cost. The system may also include mechanisms to monitor device performance, predict failures, and redistribute data to maintain optimal operation. By integrating different storage types, the invention improves data management flexibility and resource utilization in computing environments.
7. A method comprising: executing, by a service processor, a first boot process of an information handling system, wherein the first boot process is executed from a primary boot image of an operating system stored on a first storage device of the information handling system, wherein the information handling system further includes a second storage device and a third storage device, during the execution of the first boot process: the service processor initiates a basic input/output system (BIOS) setup option, receives, within the BIOS setup option, a user selection of the second storage device as a recovery storage device, and stores a recovery boot image on the second storage device, wherein the recovery boot image is a partial OS boot image; and the first boot process restarts after the recovery boot image is stored on the second storage device; and executing, by the service processor, a second boot process of the primary boot image, so that during the second boot process: the second storage device is removed from a bootable device menu in response to the second storage device storing the recovery boot image; and a driver for the second storage device is disabled to hide the second storage device from discovery by the operating system.
This invention relates to a method for managing boot processes in an information handling system to enhance system recovery capabilities. The system includes a primary storage device, a second storage device, and a third storage device. During the first boot process, executed from a primary boot image stored on the primary storage device, a service processor initiates a BIOS setup option. A user selects the second storage device as a recovery storage device, and a recovery boot image—a partial operating system (OS) boot image—is stored on the second storage device. The first boot process then restarts. In the subsequent second boot process, the second storage device is removed from the bootable device menu and its driver is disabled, effectively hiding the second storage device from the OS. This ensures the recovery boot image remains accessible for system recovery while preventing unintended access during normal operation. The method improves system reliability by providing a dedicated recovery mechanism without interfering with standard boot operations.
8. The method of claim 7 further comprising: receiving a recovery mode selection via an out-of-band communication, executing a recovery boot process from in response to the recovery mode selection being received, during the recovery boot process: unhiding the second storage device; booting to the recovery boot image on the second storage device; and configuring the operating system of the information handling system based on the recovery boot image.
This invention relates to a method for recovering an information handling system using a secondary storage device. The system includes a primary storage device with a primary boot image and a secondary storage device with a recovery boot image, where the secondary storage device is initially hidden from the system. The method involves receiving a recovery mode selection through an out-of-band communication channel, such as a network or management interface, rather than the standard user interface. Upon receiving this selection, the system executes a recovery boot process. During this process, the secondary storage device is unhidden, allowing the system to boot from the recovery boot image stored on it. The system then configures the operating system based on the recovery boot image, enabling system recovery or restoration. This approach ensures that the recovery process can be initiated remotely or through administrative channels, providing a secure and flexible way to recover the system without requiring physical access. The method leverages the hidden secondary storage device to maintain a separate, protected recovery environment that can be activated as needed.
9. The method of claim 8 further comprising: storing the recovery boot image as the primary boot image on the first storage device after the operating system of the information handling system is configured during the recovery boot process.
This invention relates to a method for recovering an information handling system, such as a computer, by storing a recovery boot image as the primary boot image on a storage device after the operating system is configured during a recovery boot process. The method involves initiating a recovery boot process on the information handling system, where the system boots from a recovery boot image stored on a first storage device. This recovery boot image contains a minimal operating system and recovery tools necessary to restore the system to a functional state. During the recovery boot process, the operating system is configured, which may include installing or repairing system files, drivers, or other components. Once the operating system is properly configured, the recovery boot image is then stored as the primary boot image on the first storage device, effectively replacing or updating the existing primary boot image. This ensures that the system will boot from a fully configured and functional operating system in subsequent startups. The method may also involve verifying the integrity of the recovery boot image before storing it as the primary boot image to ensure reliability. This approach simplifies system recovery by automating the process of transitioning from a recovery state to a fully operational state, reducing manual intervention and potential errors.
10. The method of claim 8 further comprising: patching the primary boot image on the first storage device based on the recovery boot image after the operating system of the information handling system is configured during the recovery boot process.
This invention relates to a method for recovering an information handling system by patching a primary boot image using a recovery boot image. The system includes a first storage device containing the primary boot image and a second storage device containing the recovery boot image. The method involves initiating a recovery boot process when the primary boot image is corrupted or otherwise fails to boot the system. During this process, the recovery boot image is loaded from the second storage device to temporarily operate the system. Once the operating system is configured, the primary boot image on the first storage device is patched or updated using the recovery boot image to restore functionality. This ensures the system can boot normally without requiring manual intervention or external tools. The method may also include verifying the integrity of the primary boot image before patching and ensuring the recovery boot image is up-to-date to prevent further corruption. The approach improves system reliability by providing an automated recovery mechanism that leverages redundant storage to repair critical boot components.
11. The method of claim 7 further comprising: providing a basic input/output setup option during the first boot process, and to receive the recovery boot image during the basic input/output setup option prior to the recovery boot image being stored on the second storage device.
This invention relates to a method for recovering a computing system during a boot process, particularly when the primary storage device fails or becomes corrupted. The method addresses the problem of system recovery by leveraging a secondary storage device to store a recovery boot image, ensuring the system can still boot and recover even if the primary storage device is non-functional. The method involves initiating a boot process from a primary storage device, detecting a failure or corruption in the primary storage device, and automatically switching to a secondary storage device to load a recovery boot image. The recovery boot image includes necessary system files and tools to diagnose and repair the primary storage device. The method also includes providing a basic input/output setup (BIOS/UEFI) option during the first boot process, allowing a user to manually select and load the recovery boot image from the secondary storage device before it is permanently stored. This ensures flexibility in recovery scenarios, including cases where the primary storage device is completely inaccessible. The secondary storage device may be an internal or external storage medium, such as a hard drive, solid-state drive, or removable media. The recovery boot image can be pre-installed or dynamically loaded, depending on system configuration. The method ensures system recovery without requiring external intervention, improving reliability and reducing downtime.
12. The method of claim 7 wherein each of the storage devices is a different type of storage device.
A system and method for managing data storage involves distributing data across multiple storage devices, each of which is a different type of storage device. The storage devices may include solid-state drives (SSDs), hard disk drives (HDDs), optical drives, or other storage media with varying performance characteristics. The method optimizes data placement by analyzing the performance, cost, and reliability of each storage device type to determine the most efficient storage location for different types of data. For example, frequently accessed data may be stored on high-performance SSDs, while less frequently accessed data may be stored on lower-cost HDDs. The system dynamically adjusts storage allocation based on changing data access patterns, ensuring optimal performance and cost efficiency. Additionally, the method may implement redundancy or error correction techniques to enhance data reliability across different storage types. The approach improves overall system efficiency by leveraging the strengths of each storage device type while mitigating their individual limitations.
13. An information handling system comprising: a central processing unit to execute an operating system of the information handling system; a plurality of storage devices including a first storage device to store a primary boot image for the information handling system, a second storage device, and a third storage device; and a service processor to communicate with the central processing unit and with the plurality of storage devices, to execute a first boot process, which causes the service processor to: execute the first boot process of the primary boot image, during the first boot process, the service processor to: initiate a basic input/output system (BIOS) setup option; receive, within the BIOS setup option, a user selection of the second storage device as a recovery storage device; store a recovery boot image on the second storage device, wherein the recovery boot image is a partial OS boot image; and restart the first boot process after the recovery boot image being stored on the second storage device; and execute a second boot process of the primary boot image, during the second boot process, the service processor to: remove the second storage device from a bootable device menu in response to the second storage device storing the recovery boot image; and disable a driver for the second storage device, wherein the second storage device is not accessible by the service processor in response to the driver being disabled.
This invention relates to information handling systems with enhanced boot recovery mechanisms. The system includes a central processing unit (CPU) executing an operating system, multiple storage devices, and a service processor. The storage devices include a primary storage device for the main boot image, a second storage device designated as a recovery storage device, and a third storage device. The service processor manages boot processes and storage device configurations. During the first boot process, the service processor executes the primary boot image and initiates a BIOS setup option. A user selects the second storage device as the recovery storage device. The service processor then stores a partial operating system (OS) boot image, referred to as a recovery boot image, on the second storage device. After storing the recovery boot image, the service processor restarts the first boot process. In the second boot process, the service processor removes the second storage device from the bootable device menu and disables its driver, making the second storage device inaccessible. This ensures the recovery boot image remains isolated and protected, preventing accidental modifications or deletions. The third storage device remains available for normal operations. This approach provides a reliable recovery mechanism while maintaining system security and integrity.
14. The information handling system of claim 13 , the service processor to receive a recovery mode selection via an out-of-band communication, to execute a recovery boot process from in response to the recovery mode selection being received, during the recovery boot process, the service processor to: unhide the second storage device, boot to the recovery boot image on the second storage device, and configure the operating system of the information handling system based on the recovery boot image.
This invention relates to information handling systems with enhanced recovery capabilities. The system includes a service processor that manages recovery operations, particularly when the primary operating system fails. The service processor communicates with a primary storage device and a secondary storage device, where the secondary storage device is initially hidden from the operating system. In the event of a system failure, the service processor receives a recovery mode selection via an out-of-band communication channel, such as a network or dedicated management interface. Upon receiving this selection, the service processor initiates a recovery boot process. During this process, the service processor unhides the secondary storage device, allowing the system to access it. The system then boots from a recovery boot image stored on the secondary storage device. This recovery boot image contains tools and configurations needed to restore or reconfigure the primary operating system. The service processor uses the recovery boot image to diagnose issues, repair the operating system, or perform a full system recovery. This approach ensures that the system can recover even if the primary storage device or operating system is corrupted, providing a reliable fallback mechanism for system maintenance and repair.
15. The information handling system of claim 14 , the service processor to store the recovery boot image as the primary boot image on the first storage device after the operating system of the information handling system is configured during the recovery boot process.
This invention relates to information handling systems and specifically to a method for recovering and booting an operating system using a service processor. The problem addressed is the need for a reliable recovery mechanism when an information handling system fails to boot due to corruption or failure of the primary boot image. The solution involves a service processor that stores a recovery boot image as the primary boot image on a storage device after the operating system is successfully configured during a recovery boot process. The service processor monitors the system's boot process and, upon detecting a failure, initiates a recovery boot from an alternative storage location. During the recovery boot, the service processor ensures the operating system is properly configured before replacing the corrupted or failed primary boot image with the recovery boot image. This ensures the system can boot successfully in the future. The service processor may also verify the integrity of the recovery boot image before storing it as the primary boot image. This method provides a robust recovery mechanism that minimizes downtime and ensures system reliability.
16. The information handling system of claim 14 , the service processor to patch the primary boot image on the first storage device based on the recovery boot image after the operating system of the information handling system is configured during the recovery boot process.
An information handling system includes a service processor configured to manage system recovery operations. The system comprises a first storage device storing a primary boot image and a second storage device storing a recovery boot image. During a recovery boot process, the service processor detects a failure in the primary boot image and initiates recovery by booting from the recovery boot image. The recovery boot image includes a backup of the primary boot image and necessary tools to repair it. After the operating system is successfully configured during the recovery process, the service processor patches the primary boot image on the first storage device using the recovery boot image. This ensures the primary boot image is restored to a functional state, allowing the system to boot normally in subsequent operations. The recovery process is automated, reducing manual intervention and downtime. The system may also include additional storage devices or redundant components to enhance reliability. The service processor monitors system health and triggers recovery when critical failures are detected, ensuring continuous operation.
17. The information handling system of claim 13 , the service processor further to provide a basic input/output setup option during the first boot process, and to receive the recovery boot image during the basic input/output setup option prior to the recovery boot image being stored on the second storage device.
This invention relates to information handling systems, specifically addressing the challenge of recovering a system after a failure or corruption of its primary operating system. The system includes a service processor that manages recovery operations, including the ability to provide a recovery boot image to restore the primary operating system. The service processor is configured to offer a basic input/output setup (BIOS) option during the first boot process, allowing a user to receive and store a recovery boot image on a secondary storage device before the system fully initializes. This ensures that the recovery image is available even if the primary storage device fails. The service processor also handles the transfer of the recovery boot image to the secondary storage device, ensuring it is ready for use when needed. The system may include multiple storage devices, with the service processor managing the storage and retrieval of the recovery image to facilitate system recovery. This approach improves reliability by ensuring that a recovery mechanism is in place before the system encounters critical failures.
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October 13, 2020
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